Hayden Flat Group Campground
3.826 reviews360 Main St., Weaverville, CA, 96093
Hayden Flat Group Campground
$40.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$40.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Standard Nonelectric site fees are $40 per night during peak season (May 1 - October 1). Additional fees may apply for changes, cancellations, and reservation service charges.
About this campground
Tucked away 31 miles west of Weaverville along the scenic Highway 299, Hayden Flat Group Campground offers an intimate riverside escape with just three group sites. This hidden gem sits gracefully along the banks of the Wild and Scenic Trinity River, where the gentle sound of flowing water creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Adventure seekers will appreciate the nearby wilderness trailheads that serve as gateways to endless exploration in this pristine corner of California.
Hayden Flat Group Campground is primarily geared toward group camping, with three group sites available. These sites include 3-4 individual camping areas each.
Historical SignificanceHayden Flat stands as a gateway to the legendary Trinity Alps Wilderness, a landscape steeped in conservation history and pioneering spirit. These ancient trails have witnessed generations of adventurers, from early settlers to modern-day hikers, all drawn to the region's untamed beauty. The area represents decades of dedicated natural preservation efforts, ensuring that today's visitors can experience the same awe-inspiring wilderness that has captivated travelers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, Hayden Flat transforms into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days invite river adventures and cool evenings call for campfire gatherings. With temperatures hovering around a perfect 76°F during the day and dipping to a comfortable 54°F at night, you'll experience the ideal camping climate. Crystal-clear skies dominate the season, gracing visitors with star-filled nights approximately 61% of the time—perfect for those who dream under open skies.
ElevationNestled at a gentle elevation of 1,200 feet in a picturesque river valley, Hayden Flat offers the perfect balance of mountain ambiance and comfortable camping conditions. This sweet spot elevation means you'll enjoy the fresh mountain air without the challenges of high-altitude camping, creating an accessible wilderness experience where mild temperatures and stunning scenery converge.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Wild and Scenic Trinity River serves as the campground's crown jewel, its crystal-clear waters inviting swimmers to cool off on warm afternoons and beckoning kayakers to navigate its gentle currents. Towering trees provide a natural canopy of shade, creating cool refuges throughout the day. Anglers will find themselves in paradise, casting lines into waters teeming with native fish while surrounded by the untouched beauty of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
Geological RegionHayden Flat rests in the heart of the Wild and Scenic Trinity River corridor, where the Shasta-Trinity National Forest showcases nature's artistry at every turn. This remarkable landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where rushing waters have carved dramatic riverfront vistas against the backdrop of the nearby Trinity Alps Wilderness. The region's diverse topography creates a natural playground where river valleys meet mountain majesty, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of Northern California's most spectacular natural theaters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and picnic tables are mentioned, but no detailed description of broader accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeThe group sites consist of 3-4 individual sites, but no specific dimensions of these sites are provided.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is noted to be quiet and shaded in some reviews, but proximity to Highway 299 may compromise privacy in some areas.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in the upper loop for reduced road noise and closer access to the Trinity River.
Best CampsitesGroup sites located in the upper loop offer more privacy and proximity to the scenic river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
.
Check-out
.
Stay Limit
Not explicitly stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not explicitly stated.
Groups
Each group site comprises 3-4 smaller individual camping areas, offering flexibility for groups. Details about the maximum group size or vehicle limits are not provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into an upper loop for group camping, with each group area comprising 3-4 individual sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 1 - October 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated, but group sites are reservable online.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to the arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) will forfeit the first night's fee. No changes or cancellations are allowed starting the scheduled arrival date without facility discretion.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A wide range of recreational activities is available at Hayden Flat Group Campground, thanks to its location along the Wild and Scenic portion of the Trinity River. Popular activities include fishing, swimming, floating, rafting, kayaking, and boating. Additionally, nearby trailheads provide access to the Trinity Alps Wilderness for hikers.
Hiking
Nearby trailheads lead into the Trinity Alps Wilderness, offering opportunities for hiking. Details about the trail lengths and difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity on the Trinity River, accessible directly from the campground.Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available in the Trinity River and its tributaries. However, water levels may vary seasonally, as noted in user reviews.Boating
Boating is supported for vessels that can be carried by hand. The area is also frequented by commercial rafting and whitewater guides.Winter Activities
There is no information provided about winter activities, and the campground’s operation appears to be seasonal.Water Sports
Floating, rafting, and kayaking are popular activities supported by the Trinity River’s flow. However, certain sections of the river are only recommended for expert boaters.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated rings. Visitors must bring their own water to extinguish fires when water is not available.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPeriodic changes in river flow due to Lewiston Dam releases can affect water-related activities. River conditions vary, making certain sections hazardous for tubers and inexperienced boaters.
Active alertsNone explicitly stated.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Weaverville, CA, including medical facilities and a ranger station.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - October 1.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details about trash and recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Trinity River for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Riverfront campsites provide picturesque views and recreational opportunities.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention road noise from Highway 299 and unclean facilities such as bathrooms. Limited water availability during certain periods has also been noted.
HostNo campground host information provided.
Campground Map
360 Main St., Weaverville, CA, 96093
Driving directionsHayden Flat Campground is located on the north side of CA Highway 299. To get to Hayden Flat Campground from Redding, CA: Travel West on CA Highway 299, through Weaverville, CA, for approximately 31 miles.
The campground is directly accessible from CA Highway 299. The group sites are located behind a locked gate at the top of the campground. Highway 299 is a paved highway, ensuring reliable access year-round.Nearby places
Weaverville, CA (31 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Arcata, CA (65 miles, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, camping gear, and fuel can be obtained in Weaverville, CA, approximately 31 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
3.8
6 reviews
Hayden Flat Group Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally well-received for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and access to the Trinity River. However, some reviews highlight issues such as road noise and unkempt bathrooms.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is praised for its scenic location by the Trinity River, clean facilities, and shaded sites. Many reviewers commend the peaceful and quiet environment.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include noise from nearby Highway 299, low water levels affecting recreational activities, and lack of bathroom maintenance during peak times.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend spending time by the river and utilizing the shaded campsites. Some suggest reopening the upper loops to reduce crowding and road noise.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is most praised during summer months for its access to water-based activities. However, water levels in the river are noted to be low in some years, which detracts from swimming and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful campground! Very quiet, clean, and beautiful views!" - Irina I. "Nice campground next to the river... the river was low but still could swim." - Ty White "Bathrooms were not cleaned or...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers were mentioned in reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and picnic tables are noted, but there are no detailed reviews from users with disabilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pets or pet-related policies.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025